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[2024-06-25] Discover French Proverbs & Words in Our Latest Newsletter!

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Today's photo is from Colmar, from the east of France.

Bonjour!

Ever heard the saying 'Don't look a gift horse in the mouth'? In French, it's 'À cheval donné on ne regarde pas les dents'. This newsletter will not only unravel this proverb but also introduce you to new words like attraper (to catch), étoile (star), mieux (better), merveille d'hiver (winter wonder), and gens (people).

attraper

The French word 'attraper' is used similar to how the English word 'catch' is used. It can mean to capture or grab someone or something physically. It can also be used metaphorically, like to catch a cold, you would say 'attraper un rhume'. Just like 'catch', 'attraper' is a versatile word in French.

Here's how to use it:

  • Je ne veux pas attraper un rhume.
  • Mon chat aime attraper des souris.
  • Peux-tu attraper cette étagère pour moi?

étoile

The French word 'étoile' translates as 'star' in English. It can be used in the same context as in English, pertaining to a natural object visible in the sky when dark or a famous person or personality. For example, 'Il y a beaucoup d'étoiles dans le ciel ce soir' means 'There are a lot of stars in the sky tonight'. Another example is 'Il est une étoile du cinéma' meaning 'He is a movie star'.

Here's how to use it:

  • Elle est une étoile montante dans son domaine.
  • L'étoile symbolise l'espoir et la direction.
  • Il a dessiné une étoile sur le drapeau.

mieux

The French word 'mieux' is used to signify something being better or improved. It is often used in comparison or estimation just like its English counterpart 'better'. It's important to note that 'mieux' is the comparative and superlative form of 'bon/right/good'.

Here's how to use it:

  • Je vais mieux aujourd'hui.
  • Il vaut mieux tard que jamais.
  • C'est mieux de partager la dessert.

merveille d'hiver

The French phrase 'merveille d'hiver' translates to 'winter wonderland' in English. It is used to describe an idealized place or scene of beauty or charm in winter. This could be a snow-covered landscape or a place beautifully decorated for the holiday season. In context, you might say 'C'est une merveille d'hiver dehors' translating to 'It's a winter wonderland outside'.

Here's how to use it:

  • La merveille d'hiver est venue avec le premier flocon de neige.
  • La montagne est une merveille d'hiver.
  • J'adore cette merveille d'hiver, le chocolat chaud.

gens

The French word for 'people' is 'gens'. It is used exactly like 'people' in English, to denote a group of individuals. Do note, 'gens' in French is plural and is usually accompanied by plural verb forms. For example, 'Les gens sont gentils' means 'People are nice'.

Here's how to use it:

  • Les gens sont gentils ici.
  • Les gens aiment manger de la glace en été.
  • Les gens disent qu'il va pleuvoir demain.
🤔🤔🤔

À cheval donné on ne regarde pas les dents

Never stop learning,

Mike from LangBites

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